Boston Cream Poke Cake is a delightful creation that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, creamy vanilla pudding, and moist cake in one irresistible dessert. Each bite offers a blissful experience, where the cake soaks up all that luscious filling, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
Remember those family gatherings where everyone’s eyes lit up at the mention of dessert? This cake brings back those sweet memories, evoking laughter and joy. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat, this Boston Cream Poke Cake never fails to impress and satisfy cravings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Boston Cream Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy bakers
- The rich chocolate ganache and creamy pudding create an indulgent flavor profile that everyone will love
- With its beautiful layers and glossy finish, this cake is sure to be the star of any dessert table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant celebrations
I once made this cake for my cousin’s birthday party, and let’s just say it was gone faster than you could say “seconds”!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: This is your base; choose a quality mix for best results.
Eggs: Use large eggs for optimal texture and moisture in the cake.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness; feel free to use your favorite alternative if needed.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This makes the filling creamy and decadent; don’t skimp on quality.
Heavy Cream: Essential for the ganache; it gives a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chips; they make a big difference in flavor.
Powdered Sugar: A touch of sweetness in the ganache helps balance out the flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Prepare your yellow cake mix according to package instructions—this usually involves mixing it with water, eggs, and oil until smooth.
Bake the cake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. You want that cooling time to ensure it soaks up all that delicious filling later.
While the cake cools, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and milk in a bowl until thickened—about two minutes should do! Once thickened, spread it evenly over your cooled cake’s surface with a spatula.
Now comes the fun part! Using the handle of a wooden spoon or similar object, poke holes all over your pudding-covered cake. Don’t be shy; these holes are essential for soaking up all that goodness later.
For the ganache, heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour it over semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes before stirring until smooth and shiny—this is where magic happens!
Pour your silky ganache over the entire cake, allowing it to drizzle into those holes you created earlier. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing into squares. Trust me; patience is key here!
Serve each slice with an extra drizzle of ganache or whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy this sweet slice of heaven with friends or keep it all to yourself (no judgment here).
This Boston Cream Poke Cake will have everyone begging for seconds while also leaving them wondering how you managed such remarkable flavors with such ease!
You Must Know
- This delightful Boston Cream Poke Cake is a blend of rich chocolate and creamy vanilla
- It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and sure to impress everyone at the dessert table
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it enhances flavor and texture immensely
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by baking the cake according to package instructions, then let it cool before poking holes. Once cooled, pour in the pudding mix for maximum absorption.
Add Your Touch
Consider using different flavored puddings or adding whipped cream on top for extra fluffiness. A sprinkle of nuts can add texture and flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a moister cake, use milk instead of water when mixing
- Ensure you poke enough holes for the pudding to soak in thoroughly
- Allow it to chill overnight for the best flavor and texture experience
Sharing this recipe with friends brought back memories of childhood birthday parties where cake was the highlight—always a hit with everyone!
FAQ
What is Boston Cream Poke Cake?
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a moist cake filled with vanilla pudding and topped with chocolate ganache.
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, homemade pudding will give a richer taste but ensure it’s thick enough to fill holes.
How long should I let the cake chill?
Chill the cake for at least four hours, but overnight is even better for flavor infusion.
Boston Cream Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Boston Cream Poke Cake is a luscious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate ganache, creamy vanilla pudding, and moist yellow cake. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for any occasion, bringing back sweet memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, making it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the yellow cake mix per package instructions using water, eggs, and oil. Pour into the baking dish.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
- In a bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
- Poke holes all over the pudding layer with a wooden spoon handle.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering; pour over chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle ganache over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
